AIZAWL: In a recent meeting, Chief Minister Zoramthanga of Mizoram restated the state's unwavering dedication to supporting the Kuki-Zo tribals residing in Manipur, marking a significant step towards resolving ongoing ethnic tensions in the neighboring state. This gathering saw approximately 50 Kuki-Zo tribal leaders, including six Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from Manipur, convene with Zoramthanga in Aizawl to address the prevailing situation in Manipur.
Zoramthanga expressed deep regret for the hardships and inconveniences that countless individuals have endured due to the ethnic violence in Manipur. He earnestly urged the Kuki-Zo tribal leaders to take united and well-considered steps, following extensive consultations with diverse groups and the general public, in pursuit of a brighter future.
"The government and the people of Mizoram stand resolutely with the Zo kindred tribes of Manipur and are poised to extend their unwavering support during times of need," affirmed the chief minister during the meeting.
Afterward, Zoramthanga took to social media to share his hopes that the people of Manipur would no longer suffer and that normalcy would soon return. He expressed profound sorrow over the overall suffering in Manipur, particularly among the Kuki-Zo people.
Widely regarded as a father figure by all Zo ethnic tribes, Zoramthanga emphasized the importance of preserving unity and brotherhood among the Zo kindred tribes, irrespective of their distinct ethnicities, nomenclatures, or organizational affiliations.
"The Zofate (Zo kindred tribes), residing in various countries and states, despite their differences, must remain undivided. We should not let our brotherhood crumble due to disparities or any external factors. Our unity as one tribe is our sole chance for survival," he stated in an Instagram post.
The meeting also witnessed the participation of representatives from various civil society organizations, such as the Mizo People's Convention, Kuki Students' Organization, Hmar Inpui, Committee on Tribal Unity, and Zomi Council Student Organization. Zoramthanga was accompanied by former Lok Sabha member and Vice President of the ruling Mizo National Front (MNF), Vanlalzawma.
Simultaneously, the NGO Coordination Committee, a conglomerate comprising major civil society organizations and student bodies in Mizoram, held an extensive meeting with over 100 representatives from various civil society organizations in Manipur in Aizawl. The focus of this meeting was to discuss the unity of all Zo ethnic tribes.
A leader of the Central Young Mizo Association (CYMA) revealed that leaders from various organizations shared their perspectives on the unity and integration of all Zo ethnic tribes residing in different regions of the country and around the world. Further meetings on this critical issue were agreed upon to continue fostering collaboration and solidarity among the Zo ethnic tribes.
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